Cruise, Walk & Discover

We are excited to tell you about an opportunity for those cruising this autumn! Riviera Travel will be offering Walk & Discover excursions that can be added to your European river cruise. This will be exclusive to three cruises on selected dates.

Medieval Germany River Cruise

On our Medieval Germany river cruise departing on 26th September 2019, you can add a Walk & Discover package for $55 per person. Experience Wertheim, Würzburg and Bamberg on foot with an expert local guide. You'll see a different side of these fascinating cities in the autumn sun, so don't forget take your camera.

Wertheim Walk

We leave the river behind to walk up to Wertheim Castle, known for its distinctive tower. Once home to the counts of Wertheim, the castle ruins are a reminder of the Thirty Years’ War when it was partly destroyed in an attack. From the castle there are great views of the River Main and the smaller River Tauber. Next, we climb through the forest on a panoramic trail along the Taubertal, before descending to the River Tauber, which we follow back to Wertheim.

Würzburg Walk

Leaving Old Man’s Bridge, we follow the river along the Via Romea long distance path, crossing the River Main before we pick up the Marienweg, a long-distance pilgrimage path and climb the Steinbach hill. We descend to the river, pass the Wallfahrtskirche Käppele and the Marienburg Castle to finish where we started.

Bamberg Walk

We pass through the medieval town of Bamberg and cross the river before climbing up to Altenburg castle, where we have time to see the impressive courtyard. We then head back towards the town through the forest, where we stop at a viewing platform that offers wonderful views of Bamberg below. Then we continue back down to Bamberg.

The Blue Danube River Cruise

Enjoy an extra three walking tours with a local expert and see the fascinating cities of Esztergom, Durnstein and Mondsee from a different perspective. Available on the 14th October 2019 departure for just $55 per person.

Esztergom Walk

A lovely walk up and through the forests above the town, with some lovely viewpoints over the Danube. As we head back down to the river, we pass the Csurgó well and the pretty chapel of Saint Orbán before returning to the beautiful town.

Dürnstein Walk

On our morning walk from Dürnstein, we leave the river behind and ascend through the forest of Vogel hill, where we are rewarded with stunning views of the river and Dürnstein’s beautiful church. Before descending we arrive at the Starhembergwarte, a control tower originally built with wood in 1881; over the years it has been renovated – the last facelift occurred in 1988. Inside the building, a spiral staircase leads to an observation deck, which offers wonderful views over the pine forest and the Danube valley. From here we descend to the river, passing the ruins of Dürnstein’s castle and heading back to the old town.

Mondsee Walk

After visiting Salzburg, we head to Mondsee, a beautiful town on the eponymous lake. We begin at the Mondsee Basilica, where the Von Trapps were married, and from there we make our own escape as we pick up the Salzkammergut regional trail through pretty meadows and make our way to the stunning Lake Irsee. We return to the ship in Linz by coach.

Cruise The Heart of Europe

Discover the wonders of Hainburg an der Donau, Passau, Bamberg, Würzburg and Rüdesheim on five guided walks with a local expert. Hear the crunch of autumn leaves as you walk to find beautiful views while learning about the areas you discover. Add this package of five guided walks to your booking for just $75 per person, exclusive to the 31st October 2019 departure.

Hainburg an der Donau Walk

We visit Hainburg an der Donau, a picturesque town on the banks of the River Danube. From here we follow a wooded trail along the banks of the Danube to the ruined castle of Röthelstein, before climbing up Braunsberg, a limestone massif overlooking the Danube. The views over the river are stunning.

Passau Walk

From the banks of the River Danube, we follow a nature trail along the River Ilz to the picture-postcard village of Hals. We enjoy superb views back down to the village, before passing green meadows and forests on our return journey to Passau.

Bamberg Walk

We pass through the medieval town of Bamberg and cross the river before climbing up to Altenburg castle, where we have time to see the impressive courtyard. We then head back towards the town through the forest, where we stop at a viewing platform that offers wonderful views of Bamberg below. Then we continue back down to Bamberg.

Würzburg Walk

Leaving Old Man’s Bridge, we follow the river along the Via Romea long distance path, crossing the River Main before we pick up the Marienweg, a long-distance pilgrimage path and climb the Steinbach hill. We descend to the river, pass the Wallfahrtskirche Käppele and the Marienburg Castle to finish where we started.

Rüdesheim Walk

From the river we climb through the vineyards and enjoy views over the Rhine. We arrive at the interesting Niederwald temple and the Niederwald monument, which both afford excellent views over the river. Then we descend back through vineyards, passing the castle ruins of Ehrenfels, and follow the path along the river back to the town.

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MS Charles Dickens

Built: 2015

Crew: 35

Passengers: 140

Rating:

Why we love this ship

Launched in 2015, this five-star ship was specially commissioned and designed just for us by one of Europe’s most experienced and respected ship builders. Constructed to the highest standards of comfort, design and security, you can relax into your luxurious surroundings after each day’s sightseeing with peace of mind. With 35 crew members serving just 140 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Elegant restaurant

Lounge & bar with panoramic windows

Open kitchen bistro

Lift between middle and upper decks

Sun deck with comfy chairs & sun loungers

Splash pool, putting green & giant chess board

Free tea & coffee station

Free Wi-Fi

Laundry service

Sauna, fitness equipment & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your cabin

The beautifully designed cabins and suites on the MS Charles Dickens all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Cabin sizes range from 14 square metres to 22.8 square metres. All middle and upper deck cabins boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe suites offer a small, private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.

MS Emily Brontë

Built: 2017

Crew: 44

Passengers: 169

Rating:

Why we love this ship

The five-star, Swiss-built MS Emily Brontë is quickly becoming one of our most popular river cruising vessels. Designed solely with our customers in mind, this luxury floating hotel is the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a masterpiece of on-board style and comfort. With 44 crew members serving just 169 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Elegant restaurant

Open-kitchen bistro

Lounge & bar

Lift between accommodation decks

Sun deck with comfy loungers & chairs

Splash pool & putting green

Free tea & coffee station

Free Wi-Fi

Laundry service

Nail salon & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your suite

On this all-suite ship, the beautifully designed, spacious rooms all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning or heating, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Suite sizes range from 16 square metres to a staggering 25 square metres. All middle and upper deck suites boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe balcony suites offer a private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.

MS Jane Austen

Built: 2015

Crew: 36

Passengers: 140

Rating:

Why we love this ship

Launched in 2015 and built just for us by one of the world’s most experienced luxury river ship builders, this vessel is a favourite with our clients as it guarantees a relaxing, comfortable and enjoyable river cruising experience. With 35 crew members serving just 140 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment of your stay on this elegant, floating hotel.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Restaurant & lido bar

Lounge & bar with panoramic windows

Lift between middle and upper decks

Sun deck with comfy chairs & loungers

Splash pool, putting green & giant chess board

Free tea & coffee station

Sauna, steam room & fitness equipment

Hairdressing service

Laundry service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your cabin

The beautifully designed cabins and suites on-board the MS Jane Austen all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning or heating, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Cabin sizes range from 15 square metres to 22.5 square metres. All middle and upper deck cabins boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony. For added space and luxury, treat yourself to a stay in one of the fabulous deluxe suites.

MS Oscar Wilde

Built: 2017

Crew: 44

Passengers: 169

Rating:

Why we love this ship

We are delighted to present the brand new, five-star MS Oscar Wilde – a truly world-class vessel. Designed solely with our customers in mind, this luxury floating hotel is the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a masterpiece of on-board style and comfort. With 44 crew members serving just 169 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:>

Elegant restaurant

Open-kitchen bistro

Lounge & bar

Lift between accommodation decks

Sun deck with comfy loungers & chairs

Splash pool & putting green

Free tea & coffee station

Free Wi-Fi

Laundry service

Nail salon & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your suite

On this all-suite ship, the beautifully designed and spacious rooms all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning or heating, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Suite sizes range from 16 square metres to a staggering 25 square metres. All middle and upper deck suites boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe balcony suites offer a private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.

MS Robert Burns

Built: 2018

Crew: 44

Passengers: 169

Rating:

Why we love this ship

We are delighted to present the new, five-star MS Robert Burns - a truly world-class vessel. Designed solely with our customers in mind, this luxury floating hotel is the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a masterpiece of on-board style and comfort. With 44 crew members serving just 169 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Elegant restaurant

Open-ktchen bistro

Lounge & bar

Lift between accommodation decks

Sun deck with comfy loungers & chairs

Splash pool & putting green

Free tea & coffee station

Free Wi-Fi

Laundry service

Nail salon & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your suite

On this all-suite ship, the beautifully designed, spacious rooms all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning or heating, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Suite sizes range from 16 square metres to a staggering 25 square metres. All middle and upper deck suites boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe balcony suites offer a private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.

MS Thomas Hardy

Built: 2017

Crew: 44

Passengers: 169

Rating:

Why we love this ship

The five-star, Swiss-built MS Thomas Hardy is quickly becoming one of our most popular river cruising vessels. Designed solely with our customers in mind, this luxury floating hotel is the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a masterpiece of on-board style and comfort. With 44 crew members serving just 169 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Elegant restaurant

Open-kitchen bistro

Lounge & bar

Lift between accommodation decks

Sun deck with comfy loungers & chairs

Splash pool & putting green

Free tea & coffee station

Free Wi-Fi

Laundry service

Nail salon & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your suite

On this all-suite ship, the beautifully designed and spacious rooms all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning or heating, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Suite sizes range from 16 square metres to a staggering 25 square metres. All middle and upper deck suites boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe balcony suites offer a private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.

MS William Shakespeare

Built: 2014

Crew: 35

Passengers: 140

Rating:

Why we love this ship

Specially commissioned and designed to our exacting specifications, this vessel is one of the world’s finest river cruise ships. We worked with one of Europe’s most experienced and respected luxury shipbuilders to create the perfect ship. Their exceptional creativity and design has produced a masterpiece of on-board style and comfort. With 35 crew members serving just 140 guests, you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Elegant restaurant

Stern bar

Lounge & bar with panoramic windows

Lift between middle and upper decks

Sun deck with comfy chairs & loungers

Splash pool, putting green & giant chess board

Free tea & coffee station

Free Wi-Fi

Laundry service

Sauna, fitness equipment & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your cabin

The beautifully designed cabins and suites all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning or heating, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Cabin sizes range from 14 square metres to 22.8 square metres. All middle and upper deck cabins boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe suites offer a small, private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.

MS William Wordsworth

Built: 2018

Crew: 44

Passengers: 169

Rating:

Why we love this ship

We are delighted to present the brand new, five-star MS William Wordsworth – a truly world-class vessel operated exclusively for us. Designed solely with our customers in mind, this luxury floating hotel is the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a masterpiece of on-board style and comfort, and with 44 crew members serving just 169 guests you’ll receive first class service at every moment.

The on-board experience

Quality dining is an integral part of your cruise experience and the superb cuisine is prepared on-board by our dedicated and talented chefs. Take the early riser’s breakfast or enjoy a heartier option at the sumptuous full breakfast buffet. Enjoy the comprehensive lunch buffet, but be sure to make room for afternoon tea and the chef’s special patisserie. The day’s culinary highlight is the splendid four-course dinner. Menus include a mix of international classics and dishes that reflect the regions we pass, with hand-picked selections from local markets. We are able to provide for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sugar, lactose-free and vegan diets - just let us know in advance.

This ship is well-equipped with the following facilities for your convenience, comfort and entertainment:

Elegant restaurant

Lounge & bar area

Open kitchen bistro

Lift between accommodation decks

Sun deck with comfy loungers

Splash pool & putting green

Free tea & coffee station

Laundry service

Free Wi-Fi

Nail salon & hairdressing service

Boutique gift shop

Air conditioning throughout

Your suite

On this all-suite ship, the beautifully designed, spacious rooms all have hotel-style beds, crisp cotton linen and your choice of soft or firm pillows, a private bathroom with shower, endless hot water, fluffy towels and complimentary toiletries. With free Wi-Fi, individually controlled air conditioning, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing stay. There are even facilities for making tea and coffee with the well-loved brands you’re used to at home.

Suite sizes range from 16 square metres to a staggering 25 square metres. All middle and upper deck suites boast floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a Juliet balcony, whilst the deluxe balcony suites offer a private balcony for you to sit outside and watch the world go by.